A Midsummer Night’s Drama

Bill the Bear and his friends, Sir Bun Bun, Foxy and Lady Bushytail, all live together and stage plays at their theatre, The Glade. One night, after a rapturous reception of their new play, Bill finds it impossible to settle down to sleep. His friends make suggestions, Queen Bee commands, but it is only when Sir Bun Bun cleverly suggests they play a game that Bill drifts off at last!

Full of bear-y good puns and fabulous illustrations, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Drama’ is just wonderful! Presented in three acts, it makes a fantastic read aloud and many little ones (and their grown-ups!) will empathise with poor Bill as the over-excitement of the day prevents him from being able to switch off. The illustrations are amazing- with so many details to dwell on and discuss. I absolutely love their crazy sleeping arrangements!

However, this is one of those brilliant books which can be enjoyed in so many ways. The ‘ShakesBearean’ link is obvious and there are notes at the end which share information about Shakespeare and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, the play which Bill and his friends performed. Queen Bee is reminiscent of Elizabeth I in her ruff and the Glade Theatre introduces the idea of the Globe. Between each act there is a a quatrain (echoing the form of one of those sonnets Shakespeare was so fond of writing, but missing the final two lines!) to set the scene, which offers a change of pace and style to the story. A map on the endpapers tantalisingly offers clues to other Shakespearean links, hopefully hinting that there are more ‘ShakesBearean Tales’ to come and I, for one, can’t wait!

A Midsummer Night’s Drama

Louie Stowell, illustrated by Isobel Lundie

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838915346

Storm Child

Maya's life is about to capsize. After her dad's fishing boat is ravaged by a relentless storm, her parents make the decision to start over-by moving to a tropical island.

Far from her friends and her beloved clifftop home, Maya embarks on an adventure that promises sunshine, surf and fresh beginnings. But as she makes friends with local islander Kalani, Maya soon realises that paradise is not always what it seems…

Swept away by a storm much larger than herself, can Maya bring her family back home again?

(Synopsis taken from book)

Ele Fountain has done it again with another compelling, absorbing read which challenges the reader to reflect on many things.

Maya loves the thrill of surfing. As a Penrose, she has salt water running through her veins, living where her family have always done, on the cliffs over the bay bearing her family’s name. They have been struggling and when her father’s boat is destroyed by a storm, Maya’s parents decide to move to the other side of the world, leaving her feeling out of control.

Beautiful though her new home is, Maya is plagued by loneliness and waves of homesickness. And when she meets Kalani, her awareness of the fragility of nature grows and she is forced to reflect on the consequences of decisions, whether made on a personal, on a family, on a community or even a global basis, and the importance of staying true to who you are and what you believe in. The story beautifully weaves together themes of friendship, environmental issues, being a ‘global citizen’ and of being yourself.

With wonderful descriptions throughout the story, the sea- its sights, sounds, dangers and healing- is a constant presence. Although Maya and her family have moved to paradise, events of part two cleverly echo those of part one, showing the grass isn’t always greener on the other side and that it is important to follow your heart.

I have never yet read a book by Ele Fountain that I haven’t really enjoyed, but there is something very special about this one. Highly recommended!

Storm Child

Ele Fountain

Pushkin ISBN: 978-1782693888

Published July 2024

You can read my review of ‘Wild’ here.

Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them

In the same series as ‘Glow: A child’s guide to the night sky’ and ‘Grow: A first guide to plants and how to grow them’, ‘Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them’ is another beautifully presented book from Magic Cat which seeks to engage children with the beauty and wonder of the world around them.

David Lindo, the Urban Birder, takes the reader on a journey of discovery, sharing his fascination with birds and seeking to engage the next generation of bird lovers. Each section focuses on an element relating to birds- feathers, wings, migration, various habitats- and introduces a specific bird in relation to this before looking at other birds and adaptations. There is also an ‘around the world’ section in which the author delves into the world of folklore and mythology, showing how cultures across the ages have been inspired by birds.

The book is beautifully presented with a clear introduction to each section, labelled diagrams and fact boxes. A clear glossary supports comprehension of technical terms whilst the contents page allows the reader to both browse for interest and locate specific information. Beautifully illustrated and packed with fascinating information, this book is sure to be a real hit with bird lovers and offer an amazing introduction for those who wish to know more.

Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them

David Lindo, illustrated by Sara Boccaccini Meadows

Magic Cat    ISBN: 978-1915569295

You can read my review of ‘Glow’ here and ‘The Extraordinary World of Birds’ by David Lindo here.

Shakespeare’s First Folio

Created in partnership with the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, ‘Shakespeare’s First Folio: All the Plays: A Children’s Edition’ is absolutely gorgeous. As in the original First Folio, it includes 36 plays in the same order, but in versions which have been abridged to make them accessible for children. The introduction states that they can ‘be performed by small groups in a small amount of time, using almost entirely Shakespeare’s original language.’ and a page entitled ‘Notes on the Text’ carefully explains certain decisions which have been made, including those which alter or remove certain references or topics.

The book opens with a sonnet written by Michael Rosen to tempt the reader into acting out the plays contained inside. With Emily Sutton’s wonderful interpretation of Shakespeare’s picture on the facing page, it reflects the start of the original First Folio with Ben Johnson’s sonnet and the Droeshout engraving. The contents then groups the plays into Comedies, Histories and Tragedies, making it easy for reader to locate the play they are looking for or to browse Shakespeare’s works. Each play is presented with a clear cast list, beautifully illustrated by Emily Sutton.

Meticulous and skilful as Anjna Chouhan has been in the abridging of the text, full credit has to be given to the phenomenal work of Emily Sutton in breathing life and joy into the whole work through her incredible illustrations which are rich in detail and full of delight.

This is a real treasure of a book, presenting Shakespeare to children in an accessible and welcoming manner whilst preserving his voice. Although I would not touch certain of his plays with children (Titus Andronicus springs instantly to mind!), their inclusion is necessary to reflect the First Folio and has been managed as sensitively and thoughtfully as possible.

I hate the term ‘gift book’ as every book is a gift; however, in this instance, I will say that this book would make a wonderful gift for any child- or adult- and would also make an excellent addition to any school library!

Shakespeare’s First Folio: All the Plays: A Children’s Edition

Abridged by Dr Anjna Chouhan, illustrated by Emily Sutton

Walker Books in partnership with The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust

ISBN: 978-1529514421

Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm

Peregrine Quinn has always loved hearing her godfather, Daedalus’s stories about being an immortal, but when they visit the Bodleian Library and the portals that connect the Terran Realm with the Cosmic Realm mysteriously shut down and he is kidnapped, she finds herself thrust into a desperate race to rescue him before an ancient evil is unleashed on the world. With help from dryad librarian, Rowan Strong, and Olympus Inc. liaison Callimachus Thorn, a faun, the fate of the world is in Peregrine’s hands.

What a story! ‘Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm’ is packed with magic and myth, action and adventure, making it an unputdownable read from the very first page.

Rich in references to Greek mythology, the plot romps along at a pleasing pace with many surprising twists and turns- and plenty of humour. The story moves from Oxford to the rivers of London and into the Under-Underground, transportation for Immortals to sites of significant Cosmic interest, and the dangers of the Under Realm, with each location being vividly brought to life.

Peregrine makes an amazing heroine as she faces challenges with determination, courage and ingenuity. Impulsive at times, her relationship with Rowan Strong, who likes to play by the rules and as a career Librarian finds a ‘lack of adequate information…particularly stress-inducing’, is wonderfully captured as the two come to appreciate and rely on one another.

‘Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm’ would make an excellent class read, offering plenty to discuss and enjoy- and more to look forward to in future books in the series.

Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm

Ash Bond

Piccadilly   ISBN: 978-1800786806

The Brontë Girl

‘I am just going to write because I cannot help it.’

                                                                     Charlotte Brontë

When her mother and twin brothers die from the Haworth ‘miasma’, Kate finds herself struggling to keep what’s left of her family together and out of the Workhouse. She takes a cleaning job at the Parsonage, working for the Brontë family under the watchful eye of their servant, Tabitha Aykroyd. Her dreams of writing seem fruitless as she has little time and no encouragement from her father, sister or Luke Feather, the young farmer who wants to marry her.

However, when Charlotte Brontë discovers Kate’s passion for reading and learns of her ambitions, she supports Kate, challenging her to question ideas about equality and follow her dreams. But day to day life in Haworth is hard so how will Kate ever escape?

People visiting- and living- in Haworth today are used to a picturesque little town with a cobbled main street full of quaint, interesting independent shops. It is a place full of charm- and the appeal of its link to the Brontë family. However, Miriam Halahmy has done an excellent job of introducing the reader to life and conditions in the ginnels - the passageways - of the town in the 1840s when poverty and illness were common and many who lived there struggled to survive.

Kate is bright and determined, desperate to pursue her dreams and leave the grinding poverty of her everyday life for something better. Marriage seems like her only escape, but although Luke Feather seems like he should be the answer to a better life, Kate is unsure whether she actually loves him and is frustrated by the fact that he doesn’t recognise her dreams or think that she needs them. Women should be fulfilled by marriage and children as far as he is concerned. With encouragement from Charlotte, Kate is influenced by the ideas of the Brontë sisters and seeks her own future.

Although the novel gives a tempting glimpse of the lives of the Brontës, the story does not focus on their lives, but offers a thought-provoking, often poignant story, clearly exposing the inequalities of gender, wealth and circumstance which stunted the development and success of so many poor women of this time. Thoroughly enjoyable, ‘The Brontë Girl’ is an engrossing and challenging read.

The Brontë Girl

Miriam Halahmy

ZunTold ISBN: 9781915758064

You can read my review of ‘Always Here for You’ here.

Bird Boy

‎ Sent to live with his uncle in the Lake District, Will is faced with a life far removed from the one he is used to. When he makes friends with Omar, a refugee from Afghanistan, he finds the confidence to explore and the two boys discover an osprey nest. As they watch the birds, naming them, Will feels a deep connection with the smallest chick, Whitetip, so when, on a stormy night, Whitetip is knocked out of the nest, Will is determined to save her.

Catherine Bruton is well known for her empathetic, sensitive books and in ‘Bird Boy’, she has excelled herself. This is a story about migration- for humans and birds- about starting again, about healing, about hope. Deeply poignant in places, the story is written with great honesty and tenderness.

In Will, Catherine has done an amazing job of portraying a traumatised child, offering the reader glimpses of the life he has had with his mother and the strategies he has adopted to help himself cope. Struggling to come to terms with his recent bereavement, he is taken from all he knows to live with an uncle he barely knew existed whilst a new life with grandparents he has never met on the other side of the world. The beauty and solace of the mountains, the friendship he finds with Omar – and the local community- and the desire to save the helpless chick, all help Will to begin to heal and find a new sense of peace.

There is so much to recommend this book. I sobbed in places, gasped in others and ultimately, felt uplifted and hopeful for Will’s future- and that of Omar and the ospreys. It is an incredibly powerful, beautifully executed story- not to be missed.

Bird Boy

Catherine Bruton

Nosy Crow    ISBN:  978-1839946493

You can read my review of ‘No Ballet Shoes in Syria’ here and ‘Another Twist in the Tale’ here.

How Many Dinosaurs is Too Many?

When a child meets a lovely orange dinosaur, they are delighted. But one dinosaur is never enough and soon they have ten colourful, energetic dinosaur friends. However, the disruption and chaos caused by these messy, cheeky characters is soon just too much and so the child decides that they all have to go. Once alone, the child is left feeling sad…until they are reunited with their original friend. One dinosaur is perfect!

Full of energy and humour, the rhyming text is a delight to read aloud as the antics of the dinosaurs at first delights and then worries the little child. There is no indication as to whether this is a boy or a girl, making it easy for readers to identify with the character as the adventure develops. Children will enjoy counting along as each new dinosaur appears and the book is sure to inspire counting and matching games with toys or pictures of dinosaurs.

The illustrations are wonderful, offering plenty of opportunities for finding the different dinosaurs in each picture and noticing all their antics. Children are sure to notice the worried expression on the little orange dinosaur’s face as things get out of hand and the child realises that, perhaps, what they wished for is not as good as they thought it would be! In the end, the two friends are reunited, realising that two makes perfect company!

A lovely story for home and school!

How Many Dinosaurs is Too Many?

Lou Peacock, illustrated by Nicola Slater

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839945519

A Better Best Friend

One day, Squirrel finds a best friend, a mushroom called Pock. Together, they explore the forest, watch the leaves fall and although Pock doesn’t say much, having a best friend makes Squirrel very happy. But then Spring arrives bringing them a new friend, Moo, and Squirrel finds himself caught in a dilemma -who is his best friend? And then Gunther arrives…

Narrated by Squirrel, ‘A Better Best Friend’ explores what makes a ‘best’ friend and whether it is possible to have more than one. Full of charm and humour, it offers an excellent way to start conversations about friendship with children. Like many teachers, dealing with children who are hurt because their special friend wants to play with someone else is a common part of school life and sharing Squirrel’s quandary might well help to resolve things, encouraging them to widen their friendship group.

The book ends with a picture of the four friends playing a game of cards with the words ‘The (Better) End’ beneath, leaving the reader with an open-ended story perfect for conversations, role play and storytelling to help resolve- or not- Squirrel’s concern about having more than one ‘best’ friend and equally to consider the question from the other friends’ points of view.

Although the narrative is purely Squirrel’s, the wonderful range of expressions given speak volumes for how each character is feeling, giving each a distinctive personality. The dry humour of the text and the charming illustrations make this an engaging and thought-provoking book!

A Better Best Friend

Olivier Tallec, translated by Antony Shugaar

Gecko Press   ISBN: 978-1776575732

Published 1st May

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

The Little Books of the Little Brontës

Sharing the story of the young Brontës, this gorgeous book not only introduces young children to the lives of this incredible family, but also inspires them to create their own miniature books and their own stories. Although pitched at a younger audience, there is much here to be enjoyed by readers of all ages. As a huge Brontë fan, I loved it!

Written with a direct appeal to the reader- If you look through the window…Let’s leave them there now…the text is very engaging and offers an overview of Charlotte, Branwell, Emily and Anne’s childhood at the Parsonage in Haworth. That their lives had been touched by sadness with the loss of their mother and older sisters is mentioned briefly in the text, but the focus of the book is their wonderful creativity and love of telling stories. They had each other, the moors to explore- and their imaginations.

The illustrations are enchanting and anyone who has visited the Parsonage in Haworth will recognise the care with which Briony May Smith has depicted their home (although the wallpaper in the dining room is slightly different!)- the green couch, the white fire surround, the dark wooden table where they used to write. She manages to capture the wild beauty of the moors and the closeness of the family as well as giving life to their imaginings and creativity. One illustration shows Branwell painting the famous family portrait including himself, offering yet another starting point for further discussion and discovery.

An author’s note and a timeline of events are included at the end of the book, adding details about their lives beyond the focus of the story. There is also a reproduction of the family portrait with the blurry space between sisters where Branwell might once have stood. The book is a wonderful introduction to, and celebration of, the childhood of these incredible individuals.

There are instructions for how to make your own little book like those the Brontë children used to make. This is an essential addition to any Brontë lover’s collection, but also a wonderful introduction to their lives for children and adults alike.

 The Little Books of the Little Brontës

Sara O’Leary and Briony May Smith

Walker ISBN: 978-1529518313

You can read about my visit to the Becoming the Brontës exhibition in Leeds here, Top Withens here and the Brontë Birthplace here.

Tide Magic: The Many Faces of Ista Flit

Amongst the cobbled streets and misty alleyways of Shelwich, magic rises and falls with the Tide. When the Tide is out, the magic ebbs to a low murmur. When the Tide is in, the magic is high - and Tide-blessings are at their strongest.
For most people, the Tide-blessing they are born with is nothing more than a simple party trick: eyes that change colour, or the ability to recite a poem backwards. Some, though, are blessed with more powerful gifts. Telepathy. Flight. Or, in the case of Ista Flit, being able to transform to look like someone else. Anyone else...
Ista has come to Shelwich in search of her missing father, and she'll do anything to find him - even work for Shelwich's most notorious thief. Then she meets Nat and Ruby, both struggling with their own search: Nat for his little brother, Ravi, and Ruby for her sister Saf. As more strange disappearances send shockwaves through the town, they must form a tentative friendship and draw on all the Tidemagic they can to unravel a mystery that leads to an old, abandoned theatre, and to the ancient caves beneath Shelwich. But what they find there will be far more than they have bargained for... (synopsis taken from publishers)

Oh my word! What an incredible story! I was lucky enough to find a copy of ‘Tide Magic’ in the goodie bag I received at the FCBG Conference last weekend and finding myself awake bright ad early on the Saturday morning, thought I would give it a go- and I could not put it down.

From the outset, the book is rich in imagination and brilliantly constructed world building. Added to this is evocative, descriptive writing which is a pleasure to read- and a delight to read aloud, making this a brilliant choice as a class story- or guided reading text- offering so much to discuss and enjoy.

Bold and loyal, Ista is a brilliant character and the reader is quickly invested in her story, intrigued by her Tide-blessing and the deal she has entered into with the mysterious Alexo Rokis. Although she tries to convince herself (and everyone else) that she is ‘dangerous’, Ista is actually kind-hearted and caring, leading her to find the friendship with Nat and Ruby which she didn’t think she needed. The ending of the story makes it clear that there are more adventures to come for this plucky and endearing heroine- and I can’t wait for what comes next!

Tantalising mysteries are entwined through the story as Ista’s search for her father leads her, Nat and Ruby into a dark and devious plot, liberally strewn with red herrings to keep the reader guessing and second guessing who is behind the appearance of the ominous grilks, hideous monsters, and the disappearances happening across the town, right to the very end of the book!

I cannot recommend this one highly enough! I was hooked from the first line.

Tide Magic: The Many Faces of Ista Flit

Clare Harlow, illustrated by Karl James Mountford

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241636053

Published 2nd May 2024

Zooming the Zoo

‘Zooming the Zoo’ is packed full of a fabulous collection of poems, ranging from the light-hearted and humorous to those which are more poignant, using a range of poetic styles and techniques.

‘Poetry Rules’ is the opening poem of the collection, welcoming the reader with an understanding of the ‘rules’ of poetry- that there are none! It sets the tone for the joy which follows and is sure to appeal to poetry lovers and the poetry reluctant alike!

There are so many poems here worth commenting on. ‘Just Let Me Read’ is a real treat, celebrating the joy of books and reading for pleasure whilst ‘Learning to Walk’ offers excellent advice! ‘When You’re a Kid’ is great fun- sure to keep kids - and their teachers- giggling! And O agree wholeheartedly with ‘The Problem With Acrostics’!

But there are also plenty of poems which offer pause for thought. ‘Yellow Group’ breaks my teacher’s heart as each child should feel valued for any and all of their talents and not diminished by any perceived weaknesses. In ‘The First Time I Went to Scotland’, John shares a childhood memory which I’m sure will shock many, just as it shocked me! ‘If Somebody Hurts You’ is wonderfully empowering, a mantra to learn and share with everyone.

An excellent collection for home or school, ‘Zooming the Zoo’ is a treasure trove of poetic delight!

Zooming the Zoo

John Dougherty, illustrated by Tom Morgan-Jones

Otter-Barry Books ISBN: 978-1915659217

You can read my review of ‘The Hare-Shaped Hole’ here.

Beastlands: Race to Frostfall Mountain

Kayla is a cadet Sky Rider, training at the Sky Academy in Sophiatown. Her only friend is her pangron, Faro, and when he is stolen from her, she will stop at nothing to get him back.

Alethea is a healer living in the Blue District, the poorest in Ataria. She is trying to continue her father’s work, helping others, particularly against the Scourge, a deadly disease killing many in the city and beyond. When her grandmother shows signs of the disease, Alethea knows she must leave the city to seek a cure.

Rustus also lives in Ataria- but in the Red District. Desperate to gain positive attention from his disdainful father, he is determined to come first in the Scorching Ceremony, a test by which the Unscorched become the Scorched- esteemed warriors of the Atarian army. But when he fails this initiation, he is banished to the Beastlands.

And here their worlds collide-and they find themselves an unlikely team, united in a quest to save Faro and find a cure for the Scourge…

Hearing Jess French speak at the FCBG Conference this weekend reminded me of just how much I enjoyed this book- and that I hadn’t reviewed it! Jess’s passion for nature and living things shines through the world she has created which in many ways reflects our own.

The care and attention to detail used in building the world of Ramoa, where the story is set, is phenomenal! Readers share in Rustus’s wonder as he sees the plants and creatures outside the city walls for the first time, realising that he has been misled by those within. Alethea’s passion for plants, her curiosity about them and respect for what they can do is infectious. Atmospheric and evocative, Jess’s writing is a joy to read- and read aloud!

Time is devoted at the beginning of the book to the development of each character, making the reader feel invested in each and ready to join them on their quest. Rustus, Alethea and Kayla are very different personalities from very different backgrounds yet they complement each other brilliantly. Kayla is the most resistant to relying on and working with others as her experiences have taught her to be wary, but she learns to trust, finding that true friends are worth having and can be depended upon. Rustus is a great example of how people are not always what they seem -or are expected to be- finding his place in the world- a place not defined by his father.

The plot romps along at a pleasing pace and would make an excellent class story or guided reading text. As well as an exciting and engaging tale, there is so much to discuss, explore and enjoy here such as showing respect and understanding for the plants and creatures of the world, working in harmony with the world rather than exploiting its bounty, empathising with and getting to know others rather than labelling and judging. Fortunately, the ending sets the scene for more books to come as I was very reluctant to leave this world as the story came to an end. Loved it!

Beastlands: Race to Frostfall Mountain

Jess French

Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1800784062

Blog Tour: The Doll Twin

Since the death of her parents, Una has been living in a children’s home. Missing her lighthouse home and the moods of the sea, she find life here hard, her ways infuriating Matron who calls her ‘Una the Unwanted’ and ‘Una the Unstable’. When the Smiths arrive and decide that they want to adopt her, Una is thrilled both by being wanted and by returning to live by the sea. But her new home, Copperlins, although impressive, is strange and leaves her feeling unsettled. The villagers of Knifely Stifling are wary of the house- and its inhabitants- but Una strikes up a friendship with Mary, a village girl, giving her a feeling of belonging. However, she cannot pretend that the strange occurences and noises in Copperlins are not happening and one night, she comes face to face with life-sized doll which looks just like her…

Sounds intriguing? It most certainly is! ‘The Doll Twin’ is a deliciously spooky read which keeps the reader guessing with the plot making twist after turn as poor Una finds herself facing peril, unsure of who she can trust and how she will survive.

I love the character of Una. Desperate to be a ‘good’ daughter, she struggles to mould herself to be the daughter she thinks the Smiths want whilst trying to hold on to being herself and doing what she thinks is right. Her curiosity, courage and loyalty are all severely tested yet she faces and overcomes many challenges, including being confronted by a life-sized copy of herself who she comes to know as ‘Ani’, an Animated Curiosity. I don’t want to spoil the story so I will say no more about this…

The story is wonderfully atmospheric, with locations and buildings taking on a life of their own, adding much to moments of tension or great emotion. The sea ebbs and flows through Una’s life, offering peril, sanctuary and home. ‘The Doll Twin’ is an excellent read- one not to miss!

The Doll Twin Janine Beacham

Firefly ISBN: 978-1915444479

Many thanks to Janine and the lovely people at Firefly for asking me to take part in this Blog Tour! Make sure you look at the other stops and find out what everyone else thinks about this brilliant story.

Cat Nap

Meet a little cat who needs a nap! But there are so many things which get in the way of nap time when you are an inquisitive, busy little kitten with so much to explore!

As a lover of cats and a lover of Steve Antony’s books, I was really excited about ‘Cat Nap’- and what a joy it is. Steve has managed to capture such a toddler-like range of postures and expressions as Cat gradually gives in to nap time that any adult who has ever been part of the elaborate dance of ‘how to avoid going to sleep’ which seems to be programmed into all little ones will instantly recognise!

The book bursts with gentle humour, captured through the gorgeous illustrations and the simple text. Bedtime routine- plus detours- is established using minimal words, allowing the very youngest children to join in with telling the story - and no doubt, adding their own personal details to it. Surprisingly, it doesn’t include a bedtime story, but as the ‘voice’ is that of the adult who never appears in the illustrations, perhaps this would have been tricky!

Cat’s little face (oh, those eyes!) conveys such a wealth of emotions that the story is perfect for encouraging little ones to share how they think Cat is feeling and in turn, how they feel at these times, making it a great read not only for bedtime, but any time! I believe there are more books to come in this series which I very much look forward to seeing!

Cat Nap Steve Antony

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1035029020

Out on the 11th April!

FCBG24

Another year, another conference! Henceforth known as ‘The Fun One’… the Eurovision/ SuperBowl of the KidLit calendar’ thanks to the very lovely October Jones, the FCBG Conference is always a fabulous occasion and this year’s was no exception! If anyone was wondering whether it’s worth ‘sacrificing’ one of their precious weekends for, the answer is absolutely and unequivocally YES!

This year, Woldingham School in Surrey was where it all happened. The school is set in 700 acres of lovely countryside, making it a very peaceful spot to stay and as the weather was mostly kind to us, a pleasant place to wander round.

Although the Conference Committee and their helpers has been busy for hours, delegates started to arrive at 3pm. It is always lovely to catch up with familiar faces, but a fantastic opportunity to connect with new people as well- discovering the face behind the social media name or simply meeting like minded book-lovers whilst having a cuppa and a cake.

The weekend began in earnest with afternoon tea celebrating the 10th anniversary of Supertato! Not only were there delicious cupcakes, but the tater himself made an appearance, delighting everyone with his willingness to pose for pictures! Following this were the Publishers’ Presentations, a fantastic opportunity to hear about some of the wonderful books which are currently available and coming soon. With such a wealth of books available, it is a great way of spotting books of interest to have a look at and discuss with the publishers at the exhibition!

The Publishers’ Exhibition which followed their presentations is undoubtedly one of the highlights of Conference for many delegates. The opportunity to have a closer look at some of the books mentioned in the presentations is a real joy, but actually being able to meet lovely publishing people is really special, offering an opportunity to chat about different titles, enter competitions and perhaps be offered a proof copy of something up-coming! And they really are lovely people..!

After dinner, everyone headed to the Mansion House for drinks. Sam Sedgman gave a brilliant talk about his work, including his latest book, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’ (review here). His knowledge, sense of humour and enthusiasm for discovering things and being interested in the world made him an absolute joy to listen to!

A hard act to follow you might think, but what came next was a fabulous session of music and poetry from three of the best! Treating us to a medley of well-known songs with altered lyrics such as ‘Feeding my Mind’ (Staying Alive) and ‘FCBG’ (Tragedy), the combined talents of Laura Mucha (review of ‘Celebrate!’ here and ‘Dear Ugly Sisters’ here), John Dougherty (The Hare-Shaped Hole here) and Roger Stevens (review of Razzmatazz here) were just what was needed to round off what had been an excellent start to the weekend!

Saturday was off to a bang with Cressida Cowell (The Wizards of Once) and David Almond (Bone Music), two real treasures of children’s books who I could have listened to all day! They were followed by a session called ‘Disadvantaged Boys Have Feelings Too’ with Brian Conaghan and Nathanael Lessore which I wasn’t able to enjoy as I was on the reception desk at this time, but which everyone was full of praise for!

After another round of cupcakes, Jenny Pearson took the stage for a fabulously funny and entertaining session. This was followed by the choice of four seminars: NSSM with Margaret Bateson-Hill, NNFN, graphic novels with Steve Webb and how to become an author with Julia Green (The Boy who Sailed the World). A tough decision to make!

After lunch, there was a session with Jennifer Killick (Dread Wood) and Peter Bentley (Octopus Shocktopus), past winners of the CBA which some children had been invited to attend. Next came the ‘Empathy in Picture Books’ panel with Mariajo Ilustrajo, Farrah Riaz and Kim Hillyard (Mabel and the Mountain), a wonderful session! More tea and cake followed to celebrate 30 years of ‘Dinosaur Roar!’ before the Group meetings.

And there was still more to come! We celebrated Michael Morpurgo’s 80th birthday with him before the Gala Dinner and then the incomparable David Fickling gave the after dinner speech! His enthusiasm and energy are completely infectious, making the perfect end to another perfect day!

Although some were a little bleary eyed from staying on at the bar the night before, everyone was up bright and early on Sunday to enjoy yet more book-ish joy! The first session was Lisa Williamson, an excellent YA author (First Day of My Life) , talking about her new MG series ‘Best Friends Forever’. This was followed by ‘Inclusion in Fiction’, a panel event with Sarah Hagger-Holt, Lisette Auton and Karen Owen. Lisette Auton wasn’t able to join us in person, but appeared on screen! Both of these session were thought-provoking as well as enjoyable.

Our final tea break -more cake!- was followed by ‘Fantasy with an Environmental Twist’, a fascinating session with Pari Thomson, Jess French and Rachel Delahaye (Day of the Whale). And last, but very much not least, Christopher Edge (Escape Room) closed conference in style with another excellent, fun session which no one will forget in a hurry!

Time for lunch and then we were all saying our goodbyes- and promising to meet again in Monmouth next year so we can do it all again! Many thanks to the Conference Committee for organising such a fabulous event and many apologies if I’ve left anyone out of the pictures! Can’t wait for FCBG25!

When the Storm Came

Little Frog and his family live by the river and play on its bank, but they stay away from the old tree stump where the Big Scary Thing lives. One day, however, a very big storm suddenly arrives and Little Frog falls right into the tree stump where he comes face to face with Big Scary Thing…and realises that it might not be quite so scary after all. When the storm blows them all into the water, Little Frog is safe and happy, but the Big Scary Thing and some little scary things are in trouble so all the frogs work together to save the day!

In ‘When the Storm Came’, Chris Naylor-Ballesteros has come up trumps yet again with another wonderful story. Seemingly simple, there is so much to explore and enjoy, making it a wonderful book to share at home, at school- everywhere!

‘Big Scary Thing’ personifies all those unknown entities which, because they are unknown, unfamiliar or simply different, swell to nightmare status without really deserving it. Once faced with this particular Big Scary Thing, Little Frog initially misreads its actions and assumes he is going to be eaten, but he soon realises that the action was protective and that the Big Scary Thing was just as scared of the storm as he was and was only seeking to look after and comfort Little Frog along with the little scary things. The story offers a wonderful starting point for encouraging children (and adults!) to get to know others before judging them and to consider other viewpoints. Re-telling the story from the Big Scary Thing’s perspective offers a wonderful writing opportunity- perhaps creating a play script and acting the story out using glove puppets, or hot-seating the characters and using role play/ freeze-framing to explore their feelings.

Little Frog needs the support of his family to help Big Scary Thing. Big Scary Thing – although big and scary- needs the help of the frogs. We all need help from time to time and we should all be ready and willing to offer support when needed. With its fabulous illustrations and big-hearted story, ‘When the Storm Came’ is sure to be a winner with adults and children alike!

When the Storm Came

Chris Naylor-Ballesteros

Andersen     ISBN: 978-1839132575

You can read my review of Frank and Bert here, Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert Learns to Ride a Bike here and Frank and Bert: The One with the Missing Biscuits here

Is It a Seed?

When two children discover a seed, they plant it and then start to wonder what it might become. Will it be a flower? A tree? Or a magic beanstalk?

Celebrating the power of the imagination, ‘Is It a Seed?’ is an absolute joy of a book! As the children in the story chat excitedly about their treasure, they build on each other’s ideas, allowing their imaginations to run riot. They draw on stories they know, combining and creating their own visions and exploring a world of possibilities in the way children do when allowed the time and space to play and imagine! The illustrations bring their ideas vividly to life, adding plenty of details to enjoy and explore. Readers are sure to offer their own ideas, using their own experiences reading and TV/film watching to enrich and adapt their suggestions.

The book is also perfect for inspiring interest in growing seeds and watching ‘something amazing’ happen. The end papers capture the flourishing of the imagination, but page by page, there are changes in the family’s garden, showing them planting and nurturing seeds and plants through the seasons. As time passes, sharp eyed children are sure to also notice that mum is pregnant in one picture and then seen holding a baby in another! The imagination offers them immediate gratification, but their little seed takes time and patience to blossom.

‘Is It a Seed?’ is sure to become a firm story time favourite, at home and at school, perfect for sharing and then reading and re-reading/ picture browsing independently, wallowing in imaginative dreams and creating stories of their own. An absolute joy!

Is It a Seed?

Emily Ann Davison, illustrated by Adriena Fong

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741587

Little People, Big Dreams games

The long Easter weekend offers plenty of time for playing games whilst eating plenty of chocolate. This year, we enjoyed playing two games based on the very popular ‘Little People, Big Dreams’ series.

‘Who Am I?’ is based on the game ‘Guess Who?’ and features historical figures from the books. One player chooses to be blue and one yellow before setting up their board, secretly selecting one of the cards to be their character. This they hide in their ‘shield’ card so the other player can’t see it. However, unlike traditional ‘Guess Who?’, this game encourages children to learn more about the personalities shared in the game. Under each picture there are icons- for example, a medal, a microphone, a football- giving clues to that person’s achievements, making it easier for the players to eliminate people. The booklet contains a list of question prompts and a brief biography of each historical figure which includes the aforementioned icons.

The game was a huge success with our visitors recognising some of the figures and enjoying learning about others. The questioning prompts worked really well, supporting everyone from 6 to much older with the game! The pieces are sturdy, standing up to plenty of usage, and everyone was keen to play more than once.

‘Amazing Women’ is a pairs game which can be played in two ways. With the cards facing up, pairs can be matched and then players can discover more about each in the accompanying booklet. Alternatively, the cards can be placed faced down and two turned over at a time. If the cards make a pair, the player keeps them and play continues; if not, the cards are turned over again. This was the version which we enjoyed most! The cards show the amazing woman in two different poses- one a ‘portrait’ and the other showing their ‘Big Dream’ and this inspired a lot of conversation and fun finding out. This game disappeared with our visitors when they went home as it could be enjoyed as a car game, home game, quickly put away and quickly got out…

Both games were a real hit and kept everyone entertained whilst learning about some fascinating historical figures.

Little People, Big Dreams: Who Am I? A Guessing Game

ISBN: 978-0711290310

Little People, Big Dreams: Amazing Women A Memory Game

ISBN: 978-0711287037

Splinters

With her best friend moving to Scotland, Jean is only consoled by the thought of spending the summer with her first boyfriend, Leon. However, when he tells her that he is off to America for three weeks and her parents announce the family are moving house, her holiday does not go to plan and things get worse as, on his return, Leon seems changed towards her. No longer the loving boyfriend who went away, he is cold and distant, determined only to get his hands on a strange mirror in Jean’s possession, a mirror which seems to reflect a world of different choices and possibilities.

Intriguing from the first page, ‘Splinters’ is another stunning read from Rachel Delahaye. It is also going to be very hard to review without spoiling it for any future readers- and I really don’t want to do that!

Jean really represents all of us at some time or another. Things are not going smoothly for her and she is experiencing her fair share of teenage angst, heartache, friendship and family problems- all the things which make you start to question the choices you have made- the what ifs - about life. However, she really learns that the grass is not always greener and that what might appear to be the ‘unadventurous simplicity’ of someone else’s life is no better than your own. The story is brilliantly constructed, keeping the reader constantly guessing - and perhaps challenging them to reflect on what their own choices might (or might not) be!

Character is something Rachel does really well and different facets of personality are skilfully explored here, how the ways we react to others, how we handle situations, how our choices affect our lives. No life is perfect, but the one we have is the one we should focus on. As well as being an extremely gripping read, the story offers much to reflect upon. In the end, there are still choices to be made, leaving the reader wondering which one Jean finally makes.

There is so much to recommend ‘Splinters’- not least the way music has been used throughout the story! It is a deliciously dark tale, full of suspense and I cannot recommend it highly enough!

Splinters Rachel Delahaye

Troika

Coming soon…

You can read my review of ‘Day of the Whale’ here and ‘Electric Life’ here.